Dutch gambling regulator warns unlicensed bingo operator
The KSA reminded operators of the strict rules for offering bingo without a licence in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands.- The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has warned a company for organising unlicensed bingo events under the name Bingo Loco. The KSA said Legs Eleven Limited has held unlicensed bingo events at locations including the Maassilo in Rotterdam and Complex in Maastricht.
The regulator has issued a warning to both the organiser and to the Maassilo. Such events qualify as games of chance that do not fall within the legal exceptions for bingo and are therefore not permitted, it said.
The KSA said it had been in contact with the parties involved, and that events have been changed as a result. The bingo draws have been replaced by a music quiz so they no longer breach gambling legislation.
“Bingo games may only be organised without a licence under strict conditions,” the KSA stressed. For example, the organiser must be a Dutch association that has existed for at least three years and was not established to organise games of chance. The proceeds must also benefit a previously announced charity.
“In addition, maximum prizes apply: €400 per prize and €1,550 per event. The bingo event must also be reported to the municipality in advance.”
The KSA said the Bingo Loco events didn’t meet these conditions as they involved large-scale, public events of a commercial nature where prizes could be won.
“The KSA monitors compliance with gambling regulations and takes action against illegal offerings. When gambling is organised without a licence, the KSA can take enforcement action, for example by imposing a penalty payment order, an administrative fine, or seizing materials and prizes,” it said.
Last week, the KSA published two new studies and provided additional guidance on the fulfilment of the duty of care for online gambling licensees in the Netherlands. The documents provide insight into practice and offer clarification regarding personal interviews and the submission of notifications for registration in the Central Register for Exclusion from Gambling (Cruks).
